A.N./Disclaimer: Most of the characters and the original plot belong to J.K. Rowling. I do not own them. Neither am I profiting from this nor do I plan to commercialize it. I am writing for fun.

A.N.: Thank you for all the follows, favorites and reviews.

Chapter 9

June 29, 1993

7:00 A.M.

Harry woke the next morning to the beautiful trill of Rowena. He sat up on his bed and stretched, thinking about how things had changed over the past month. Around a month ago, he had no clue about his parents or his family's rich history. He had only heard bits and pieces from here and there, but he still felt that he knew nothing about his family. He recounted his experience in the magical world since his entry as an eleven-year-old. The only thing he had known about his family was that they were rich, which he came to know because of his visit to his trust vault. Even though it was just a tiny fraction of his family's vast wealth, at that time he could tell his family was well to do. He now remembered how Draco Malfoy had 'warned' him to not be friends with 'people of the wrong sort'. Though he still hated Draco for his remark, in hindsight, it was the only time someone spoke of the Potters' history to him, even if it was an indirect remark. Over the next couple of years, he came to know that he looked like his father but had his mother's eyes, that his father was a star chaser for the Gryffindor quidditch team, that his parents were so much in love and that his mother had sacrificed herself to protect him.

However, ever since his meeting with Director Ragnok, he now not only knew about his family, but he also felt closer to his family's rich history. He also had his parents' journals which he read every night before going to sleep. Tony was going to put up his parents' portraits in his personal study soon, probably before Christmas. The portraits hadn't come alive yet but Tux had said that they would sometime soon. He was excited to speak to their memory-selves. Along with the journals, there was another diary that his parents had written in, just for him. He remembered the memories of his parents he had watched. There were two vials with the diary. They were labeled Dad and Mum.

*** FLASHBACK ***

Harry poured out the vial labeled 'Dad' into the Potter pensieve and lowered his head into it. He landed on a soft landing. He saw his father sitting on a royal-looking couch.

"Hello Prongslet", said James. "Your mum and I had decided to store these memories for you in case you had to grow up without us around. There are certain things a Potter must know growing up. They are passed on from father to son. Let me get that out of the way first.

"We, the Potters, have always lived by two simple rules.

"The first, know your station but don't look down upon others. The Potters are one of the six oldest and founding families of Magical Britannia. The only families that have a similar station are the Houses of Black, Bones, Emrys, Longbottom and Peverell. The Peverell line had been merged with the Potter line centuries ago and the House of Emrys hasn't had a descendant for years due to the curse on Merlin. The House of Emrys will return, probably in your generation. However, this doesn't give you the right to look down on other families. Instead, use your influence to right the wrongs for people who have been treated unfairly.

"The second, family and friends above all. Never shun your family and friends. We treat the protection of our family and friends as a matter of grave importance. Love them, respect them and stand for them through thick and thin. Never should it be said that a Potter bailed on his/her friend.

"Look after your familiars, son. They will guide you in toughest of times.

"Now, on to other things. First and foremost, do not believe in the ideals of Light and Dark faction. The Potters have always been in the Gray faction or the Neutral faction. Magic is gray and so are we. If someone has committed a grave crime, they must pay for their sins. We don't believe in forgiveness like the Light side, nor do we believe in cold-blooded murders like the Dark side. We believe in just punishments. That was the ideology on which the High Six governed the Magical Britannia. Never forget that.

"Be wary of Albus Dumbledore, if he's still around. Read our family Grimoires and practice Mind Arts. Dumbledore can read your mind if your defenses aren't good enough. Train hard if Riddle is still around. Do not forget that he messed with the Potters.

"Go through the diary your mum and I had penned down for you. We would like it if you could materialize our goals of The Phoenix Group. You can speak with Moony and Padfoot, they know about it.

"The last thing, dear Harry, is be a good man. Study well, enjoy quidditch, go out with the girl you love and most importantly, prank the jerks who deserve to be pranked.

"I hope you become a better man, better than I could ever be. I love you and I will always be proud of you. Take care, son."

Harry was in tears as he finished the memory. He placed the memory back into the vial and poured out the other vial. It was a similar setting, but his mother sitting instead of his father.

"My poor baby", said Lily. "I wish that we raised you up and you never had to watch this memory. James has already spoken of what the Potters should know. I won't repeat it. I just have a few things that I wish to tell you while growing up.

"Be respectful towards your elders but do not follow them blindly. Be considerate of others' feelings but don't jeopardize your happiness for it. Learn to be self-dependent but ask for others' help when you need it. Eat a healthy diet and keep exercising. The wizard culture is not as particular on fitness as the mundane world, but that doesn't mean you forsake a healthy lifestyle.

"Please don't neglect your studies. Your father and I were consistently in the top during our school years. Make loads of friends but do not forget your godsiblings.

"Your father was a good man, but he too had his faults. Especially when it came to courting me. He sucked at it. I hope when you find the one, you do a better job than your father did. The Potter men are known to marry the smartest witch of their generation. The Potters don't do marriage contracts. They believe in marrying for love. I hope you find someone who loves you for who you are and not for the Potter name. And remind Sirius that if he ever thinks of a marriage contract for you, I will make his afterlife a living hell.

"Be a good man, Harry. I love you, and I will always be proud of you. Take care, my poor baby."

*** END OF FLASHBACK ***

Now, his friends, family and he had set things in motion. The Phoenix Group was established, and the businesses would be up and running soon. From his parents' journals he read about their time in Hogwarts. All in all, this was the closest he had felt to his family. He began stroking Rowena's chin absent-mindedly who kept on trilling merrily. Harry stopped petting when he heard a knock at his door. He left the bed and opened the door.

It was Hermione. She looked like she had already showered. Hermione said, "Good morning, Harry. Did you just wake up?"

"Morning, Hermione", replied Harry. "I have been up for ten minutes or so. I was just petting Rowena. What about you?"

"Oh, I have been up for an hour now. I took a shower and I am ready to head downstairs. I thought I'd ask you before I went down", said Hermione.

"You woke up that early?", asked Harry. "It's summer holidays, Hermione. You know we don't have classes, don't you?"

"Hush you, Harry. My parents leave for practice at 8:15 A.M. I just want to sit down for breakfast with them, that's all", replied Hermione. "So, do you want to join me?"

"Umm, I'd love to", replied Harry, "but give me 30 minutes. I need to freshen up and shower."

"Sure", said Hermione. "Do you mind if I sit here and pet Rowena?"

"Oh no, go ahead", replied Harry. Hedwig flew into the room and perched upon the bed's headrest. "In fact, why don't you pet Rowena, Hedwig and Godric?" Godric pulsed into the room as soon as Harry took his name.

Hermione looked very excited as she started stroking Rowena's chest. Harry stopped by his dressing room to pick his clothes before heading to the bathroom.

Harry returned thirty minutes later and found Hermione staring out of the window. Rowena was perched on her right shoulder and Hedwig was on her left. Godric was perched on the windowsill. They were all staring at the morning sun. Harry broke the silence, "Okay, I am ready to go." Hedwig flew from Hermione's shoulder and landed on Harry's. He petted her and asked, "Do you want some bacon? You can always join us." Hedwig hooted softly and bobbed her head.

Hermione replied, "Looks like she's ready too. Let's go."

Harry said, "Godric, Rowena. You should come too. You can have fruits or bacon, or both." Rowena trilled an affirmative tone and disappeared with Godric. Harry said, "Looks like they'll be making an appearance downstairs."

Hermione chuckled, "We should go. Don't want my parents to get scared." Harry and Hermione had started walking towards the stairs when Neville, Luna, Susan and Tonks joined them. They headed down to the dining room together, giggling and chatting.

Everyone was already at the table, waiting for them. Remus was the first to say, "Good morning kids."

"Good morning", chorused everyone except Tonks who said, "I am not a kid."

Andi replied, "Oh, right. You are a baby, not a kid." Tonks pouted as everyone started laughing. Rowena and Godric appeared with a thunder and flash of flames. Everyone seemed surprised at their entrance but Harry.

Harry shook his head and said, "Told you they wanted to make an entrance." Rowena sang a song of joy as everyone laughed at Harry's statement. The kids sat down at the table. Rowena and Godric took two of the four perches set by the dining table for the familiars and delivery owls. Hedwig perched on the table in front of Harry. As the house-elves served them breakfast, Harry broke a few pieces of bacon and put it on his plate on the side for Hedwig to eat. Rowena and Godric were served fruits and bacon by Star.

The breakfast was not too quiet an affair. The kids were chatting amongst themselves, coming up with a schedule for the next two weeks. Dora and Amelia were busy talking about DMLE affairs. Sirius, Remus, Ted and Richard were discussing cars. Xeno, Minerva and Augusta were involved in a discussion about the current wizengamot, Mind the Twinkle and My Wish Mag. Andi and Elizabeth were talking about differences between magical and non-magical medical science.

After breakfast, everyone began to leave for their day's planned work after thanking the house-elves for breakfast. Minerva headed to Hogwarts and the Grangers to their practice. Xeno and Sirius went to scout office locations for Mind the Twinkle and My Wish Mag. Andi left for St. Mungo's while Ted left for his firm. Amelia and Dora left for the ministry. Remus, Augusta and the kids were the remaining humans in the mansion. Remus said, "If any of you need my help, I will be in my personal study, working on the syllabus for DADA." Augusta and the kids nodded. Remus thanked the house-elves and headed to his study.

"Gran", said Neville, "we are going to work on our homework in the library. We will join you for lunch at 1:30."

"Sounds good, Neville", replied Augusta. "I will be in my formal study. I plan on going through the contractor portfolios Senior Account Manager Ragnok XII handed us yesterday. We need to finalize contractors for The Hungry Hippo and The Fairmont Phoenix soon. We want them to be up and running by August 1st in the magical community and by Christmas the mundane world. If you kids need anything, let me know."

"We will, gran", replied Neville. Augusta nodded her head, thanked the house-elves and left. The kids thanked the house-elves and left the dining room. They headed to their rooms to pick up their homework supplied and proceeded to the library on the second floor.

As they sat down to complete their homework, Hermione pulled out a notepad and a pen. Neville, Susan and Luna stared at her dumbfounded. Harry, on the other hand, found their reactions hilarious. Hermione then explained them about the mundane writing supplies. She showed them pencils, erasers and sharpeners. Neville, Susan and Luna quite liked the mundane stationery. Hermione then said, "Before we start with our homework, I think we must first make a schedule."

Luna replied, "Yes, sure."

"Perfect", replied Hermione. "I have a plan that I am quite sure you'll all like. I was thinking why don't we use the trunk every morning? I mean, the adults will all be gone to work during the day. We can spend this time in the trunk and complete as much homework and studying as possible so that we can enjoy with the adults once they return."

"That sounds like a brilliant idea, Hermione", replied Susan.

"So, I was thinking that we set the Time Dilation to an hour on the outside to a day on the inside. We will spend a total of seven hours on the inside everyday, Monday through Friday before we leave for vacation. That gives us a total of 63 days. These 63 days will be spent finishing our homework and helping Luna prepare for her advancement exams", said Hermione.

"I was wondering, if we can get one of the adults to join us every night after dinner, we can practice the spells of last two years, and possibly for the third year as well", replied Susan.

"We can ask the adults tonight at dinner", added Neville.

"Alright, let's head to the trunk", said Hermione.

"Star", called out Harry and Star appeared promptly. "Star, could you take all of our clothes for seven days into the trunk? Also, while you're at it, could you let Gran Augusta know that we are heading into the trunk and we will meet her for lunch at 1:30?"

"Yes, Master Harry", replied Star and disappeared. Harry and his friends gathered their books and headed to the trunk. Star and Tony joined them a few minutes later with their clothes and kitchen supplies. Over the five days inside the trunk, the kids were completely immersed in their homework. Whenever they weren't studying, they were planning an elaborate prank on the entire school on the first night to entertain the first years. They joined Augusta for lunch which was a quiet affair. After lunch, they returned to the trunk for the next couple of hours on the outside. When they returned from the trunk, all their homework had been completed.

In the evening around six, Sirius, Remus, Ted and the Grangers returned with five cars and five bicycles for the kids. Every human in the mansion got into one of the cars and they headed into town for a lively dinner in an open roof restaurant. The kids had a good time and so did the magical folks, especially Augusta, Minerva, Amelia and Xeno, as it was a new experience for them. After they had returned home, they sat down in the lounge on the first floor. The adults except Elizabeth and Tonks had some sort of alcohol with them while the kids, Elizabeth and Tonks had a cup of hot chocolate each.

They were all chatting about their day when Harry said, "Umm, we have a request. More like, we need your help."

"What is it, pup?", asked Sirius.

"We are all done with our homework. We decided to use the trunk during the day, which gave us seven days' worth of time for the seven hours during the day", replied Harry.

"Tomorrow onwards, we plan on spending the seven days' worth of time revising the last two years' material and helping Luna prepare for her advancement tests", added Hermione.

"We were wondering if one of the adults could join us every night after dinner so we can practice the spells", added Susan.

"We are fine with even two days' time in the trunk every night after dinner", said Neville.

"I can use this time to ask questions about second year study material as well", finished Luna.

"Give us a couple of minutes, I want to discuss something with everyone", replied Minerva. The adults began to discuss amongst themselves. After a few minutes, Minerva said, "We have a better proposition for you. We leave for vacation on Tuesday, July 13th. Starting tonight through the night of Monday, July 12th, we will all spend our entire nights in the trunk. We will head to the trunk by 9:30 at night and return by 7:30 in the morning. This will give us ten days' time every night. Of course, we will revise the first two years' materials, but you will also practice non-verbal casting for all the spells taught in the first two years. This will also help Luna to catch up to the third year faster.

"Andi will teach you potions, Remus will be teaching Defense against the Dark Arts and History of Magic, I will teach you Transfiguration and Sirius will be teaching charms. All the other adults will help us out in looking after you. Remus and Augusta may even join you in the trunk for the seven days during the day when they are free. We only ask one thing of you. While we are on holiday and after we return from the holiday, we want you people to enjoy like children are supposed to. These 14 days, which will actually be around 200 days in the trunk, you can work as hard as you want to. We will teach you anything and everything we can cover right from first year's course, in order, but after July 12th, we want you to enjoy till the school starts. Is that acceptable?"

The kids didn't even have to think about it. They readily agreed. Over the next hour, preparations were made for this new schedule. The house-elves helped them move required amount of their things into bedroom chambers in the trunk.

The extended family got into a rhythm over the next couple of days. The kids spent the day in the trunk when the adults were out working. The seven days' time that they usually had when the adults were away, they either revised on the theoretical parts from the last two years, helped Luna understand the second-year material or go over the things that they had covered in the ten days with the adults. Some days when Remus would join them in the trunk during the day, they would spend the entire eight hours in the trunk without stepping out for lunch.

During one of the ten-day periods, after they had finished their potions class with Andi, Harry said, "I didn't think I would every say this, but I am actually enjoying potions."

"Well, the slimy git doesn't really teach us, mate", replied Neville.

"Oh yeah, all Snape does is snarl 'Potter' and 'Longbottom'", added Harry.

"I don't like the greasy dungeon bat at all. He gives me the creeps", said Neville.

The girls were chuckling at the guys' reactions. Hermione said in between her giggles, "I have never admitted it before but Professor Snape is actually the worst teacher we've had along with Professors Binns, Quirrell and Lockhart."

Later that day in their Transfiguration class they were revising the first-year spell to turn a matchstick into a needle. However, Minerva wanted them to do it non-verbally and without any wand movements. This was the first time they had been asked to perform a task non-verbally in any of the subjects. After a few tries, Harry managed to turn the matchstick into a needle.

"How did you do that?", asked Hermione. Neville, Susan and Luna were also staring at Harry, waiting for his answer.

Harry replied, "I was reading my parents' journals. My dad had said that magic is all about intent. It is crucial in spell casting, and even more important when it comes to non-verbal casting. However, that isn't the only thing that is required. It is important to visualize the end result as well. You don't have to think of the spell, nor do you have to spell the enchantment in your mind. You just have to think of the needle and intend the matchstick to be transfigured into a needle."

"That is correct, Harry", said Minerva. "James and Lily were very good at non-verbal casting. I wonder where he figured it out from. Was it Charlus?"

"Yes", replied Harry. "My dad was taught non-verbal casting every summer for the first two years by grandpa. My mum actually looked for it in the library and practiced on her own. When my parents got together in the seventh year, my dad told her about non-verbal casting tricks he had learnt from grandpa."

"That makes sense. Charlus was an archmagus and he was exceptional at non-verbal casting", said Minerva. "I expect you will teach your friends the same, Harry."

"Yes, Aunt Minnie", replied Harry. He reiterated the tricks he had picked up from his parents' journals. After a few more tries, the others were able to complete the assigned task. From that day onwards, all of their revisions also included non-verbal casting.

The arranged schedule continued for the remainder of the days prior to their vacation. On weekends, they'd spend time by the pool, go out for lunch, watch movies and play board games. On weekdays, the kids spent thirty to forty-five minutes biking in the surrounding woods in the evenings.

On Friday, July 9th, the kids were the only ones at the mansion. Dora had gone to the ministry, Andi was away for her shift at St. Mungo's, Xeno had gone to continue the hiring process at 'Mind the Twinkle' and 'My Wish Mag', and Ted had gone to his old firm to resign and file paperwork for his new firm. Sirius, Augusta, Amelia, Remus and McGonagall had gone to Hogwarts for the Board of Governors and staff meeting, while the Grangers were at their practice. They returned in the evening to find the kids watching Star Wars in the entertainment room.

Sirius announced, "We are back, kids. That concludes our official business work before we head for vacation." The kids cheered as Sirius continued, "I am not done yet. We have some surprises for you."

"We are all going to the movies tomorrow. My friend, Mr. Smith, said that 'Jurassic Park' is a great movie about dinosaurs. Our show is at 6:15 tomorrow evening", said Richard. The kids were very excited now.

Elizabeth continued, "That isn't all. We got pizzas tonight for dinner." Everyone, including the adults cheered and clapped, excited for pizza.

Ted said, "This Sunday we are going shopping at the mall. Everyone needs to buy beach wear, at the least." The adults were laughing at the kids' enthusiasm. Tonks was also jumping with the kids.

Over the weekend, the extended family enjoyed to the fullest. They went to the movies, the mall, and restaurant. However, at nights, they returned to the trunk. During the last set of ten days that they were spending inside the trunk, the kids worked hard to pass all the tests that the adults had prepared for them. They had kept the last of the ten days free to discuss their progress. All the adults and the kids were gathered in the sitting room inside the trunk.

Minerva spoke first, "First of all, let me say that we are very proud of you kids. Based on everything we've covered till date and the tests you took recently, I can proudly say that each of you can pass the third year Transfiguration with an EE at least. Obviously, the aim isn't to advance to the fourth year yet. When you return to Hogwarts, you'll be taught the same thing again in classes with the rest of the students. I will expect you kids to not slack off and aim for Os this term onwards. And Luna, I am quite sure you can pass the advancement tests."

Sirius continued, "I may not be as good a professor as Filius, but I can say that you guys did well in charms as well. I will be sending copies of the test to Filius to let him know what you kids have studied. This will help him in deciding what extra homework or studying material he might want to assign you."

Remus added, "As for DADA, if you guys took your third-year finals now, you'll all pass with an EE at least. It is a shame we couldn't practice with a live boggart, but I am expecting one to be available for in-class demonstration at Hogwarts. You guys have worked hard, I am proud of you people."

Andi said, "Harry and Neville have shown quite an improvement in their brewing skills. Hermione, Susan and Luna were quite good already but lacked confidence. However, now all of them are equally good and confident. Don't let Snape dampen your confidence. If he does anything unjust, make sure you report to your head of house."

Minerva finished, "To conclude, we are very proud of your hard work and dedication. We want you to enjoy the remainder of your vacation, even after we return from our trip. Good job, kids." The adults applauded the kids who were blushing at the compliments and cheers.

"Now, now", said Richard, drawing everyone's attention to himself. "We have been planning the holiday trip behind your backs. It's time we told you about the trip. We leave Lily's Keep Tuesday morning by 10. Our flight is at 2 in the afternoon. Our first stop is Monaco where we will be spending our holiday till the 17th of July. We will be staying in Hotel De Paris Monte-Carlo."

"On the 18th, we will leave for France", said Ted. "We plan on being there till the 24th. We will be staying in two different properties, Potter Chateau and Peverell Cottage, depending on which one is closer to the city we are touring."

"On the 25th, we leave for Italy", added Sirius. "There's a Black property there, right by mundane Rome. We will spend four days in Rome and the remaining days in Naples. We will stay in Draven's Hide while we are in Naples."

"We will leave for Sweden on August 1st. We will be in Sweden till the 6th. While we are in Sweden, we will be staying at Lovegood Den and Bones Villa depending on the city we are in", said Xeno.

"Our return flight to London is on August 7th from Stockholm, Sweden", finished Elizabeth. The kids were now jumping in excitement. Harry was so happy that he had tears in his eyes. The kids hugged the adults one by one and thanked them.

There was a buzz among the group as they left the mansion for their holiday trip. Each of them felt they had earned themselves a good break. They had all been working hard ever since the revelations made at Gringotts during Harry's appointment. Even though it had only been a month in real time, because of all that dilated time they had spent inside the trunk, they had come a long way. Everything for The Phoenix Group had also been finalized. The office, store, hotel and restaurant locations, the contractors and the employees, all had been finalized. Each of the businesses owned by the Phoenix Group would be up and running on August 2, 1993. All in all, the group left England for their well-deserved break.

July 30, 1993

Monaco and France had been exceptionally beautiful. The family had spent their time on beaches, exploring and learning the local culture, visiting museums and historic sites, places of wonder and of course, some shopping. They also visited the magical parts of Monaco and France. Their stay in Italy till date had been filled with joy as well. However, there was an excited buzz amongst the group this morning. It was after all the Longbottom Heir's birthday. As everyone gathered in the dining room for breakfast, the house-elves brought out a cake and placed in front of Neville. Everyone sang the birthday song as Neville cut the cake. After cutting and sharing of cake, Luna exclaimed, "Presents! Presents! Presents!"

Everyone started to laugh at her enthusiasm as the kids and Tonks came forward together and handed Neville a big box. Neville opened the box to find a crate of books on herbology, dragonhide gloves and boots, and shoes. Harry said, "We also have a greenhouse filled with rare species of plants, both magical and mundane, waiting at Lily's Keep for you." Neville promptly thanked and hugged his friends.

Augusta was the next to give Neville his present, two journals and a pair of elegant looking robes. She said, "These are Frank's and Alice's journals." Neville ran his hand slowly over the journals, with his eyes filled with tears. He thanked his grandmother profusely.

Next to go were Remus and Sirius. They gifted him a personal pensieve and a book on Mind Arts. The Grangers gifted him some mundane clothes. Amelia presented him with an auror grade dictaquill that would help him take notes in Professor Binns' class. Andi gave him a book on medicinal plants and healing while Ted gave him a book on magical laws around the world, something which Neville had shown an interest in during the time in the trunk. Xeno was the next to give his present, which was a book on rare, tropical magical plants.

Minerva was the last to gift Neville. She said, "I have a present from Pomona as well." Neville received a book on advanced Transfiguration from Minerva, and a book on potting techniques and seeds of rarer plant species from Pomona. Neville thanked each of them for their wonderful gifts before they began their breakfast. They spent the day wandering the streets of Naples.

There was a similar buzz the next day as well. This time it was Harry's birthday. As soon as the cake-cutting was over, it was Hermione this time who seem to be the most excited of the lot. She was practically jumping with a box in her hand. She handed it to Harry and said, "Open mine first, Harry."

Harry chuckled and opened the box he had just been handed. It was a broom servicing kit. Harry thanked Hermione and said, "I had been wanting something like this for a while, Hermione. Thank you very much."

"You're welcome, Harry", smiled Hermione.

Next to present was Luna, who gifted him a book on making of brooms, their history and enchantments. Neville gifted him a book on quidditch, plays and history of the sport. Susan gave him a pair of shoes. Remus gifted him a set of books on advanced defense against the dark arts. Minerva gave him a book on Transfiguration in duels. Harry received mundane clothes from the Grangers. From Augusta, he received a book on wards and runes, and from Amelia, he received an auror grade dictaquill. Andi gifted him a book on potions and Dora gave him a pair of dragonhide boots. Xeno gave him a book on magical creatures. Ted gifted him seeker's protective gear.

Sirius gave him a journal containing all the notes that had been passed between the Marauders. He said, "I know you have the Marauder Playbook. This contains all the notes we passed around before finalizing a prank. You know what to do." Sirius then winked at Harry.

"You better not bring the school to its knees, Harry", retorted Minerva.

"I'd never do that, Auntie Min", replied Harry. "Never", he added and winked at Sirius. Rowena, Godric and Hedwig appeared in the room at the same time. While Hedwig was by the window, Rowena and Godric landed right in front of Harry. Harry retrieved all the packages and provided water and treats to his familiars.

He first picked up the package that Hedwig had brought. It had a note from Tux saying that it had been received from the Weasleys. Harry opened the note and read:

Harry mate,

Happy birthday. We are sorry we couldn't have you over for your birthday. We are having a good time in Egypt. It is such a beautiful country. Bill took us to show his work the other day, it was bloody amazing. I will tell you all about it when we meet, mate.

Everyone's wishing you a happy birthday, Harry. Mum made these sweets and I got this sneakoscope for you from one of the Egyptian shops. Have a blast, mate. Do you want to meet at Diagon Alley on August 23 for shopping for school year?

Your friend,

Ron.

Harry passed the letter around and opened the box of sweets and sneakoscope from the Weasleys. Next, he picked up the package that Godric was carrying. There was a shrunken trunk and a note. He opened the note and read:

Dear Lord Potter,

I wish you a very happy birthday. I hope you are having a great time with your family and friends. I would like to gift you my collection of books on estate management, world magical history and combat strategies.

May your gold overflow and your blades never dull.

Director Ragnok,

Chief of the Goblin Nation.

Harry handed the letter for others to see and expanded the trunk. It was filled with large tomes. Harry quickly penned down a note of gratitude for the goblin and sent it with Godric. He picked up the remaining package. This also contained a shrunken trunk and a note. The note read:

Dear Harry,

I wish you a very happy birthday. I hope you are enjoying with your family and friends.

Harry, I've been around for more than fifteen hundred years. I have been on many expeditions to discover more about our magical community. In these fifteen hundred years, I have come across numerous plant and animal species that we don't see in Britain. I have also researched quite a lot into wandlore and other aspects of magic and its behavior. However, one of my best experiences was studying elemental magic around twelve hundred years ago. You're a Potter-Peverell, and you'll be an elemental archmagus, just like generations of Potter-Peverells before you. Your father was training to be one but alas, he could never finish his training. You are the last in your line and so am I in my family's line. My son died pretty young and so did my wife soon after. I could never muster up the courage to remarry or have another child. Therefore, I would like to gift you a copy of all my life's work till date. I hope they are useful to you, your friends and your family.

You are a boon to your houses, Harry. Never change.

Best wishes,

Irving Sato.

Harry was completely moved by Master Sato's gesture. He handed the letter to Sirius and penned down a long note of gratitude to the ancient wandmaker. He expanded the trunk to see that it was a library trunk filled with tomes, scrolls and journals. Harry thanked everyone and sat down for breakfast. After breakfast, the family spent the day shopping and packing for the final leg of their trip.

August 16, 1993

Lily's Keep, Privet Drive

The remainder of the vacation had been spent enjoying wandering the local streets and learning their culture. Most of the shopping that the family had done had already been moved to Lily's Keep prior to their arrival in London by their house-elves. The week of August 9th was spent on catching up to all the pending work. The kids spent time with Luna, helping her revise for the advancement tests.

Everyone was gathered at the breakfast table on the morning of August 16th. Minerva said, "Luna, you'll have two tests a day. Today will be your Transfiguration and Potions. You will take tests in Charms and Astronomy tomorrow. On Wednesday, it will be Herbology and History of Magic. DADA will be on Thursday. Of course, the other kids can tag along. They can roam around or wait while you finish your test. Xeno will also be coming with us." The kids, Xeno and Minerva left the mansion for Hogwarts at 8:30.

As soon as they reached Hogwarts, Luna disappeared with Minerva for her test. Xeno waited for her in the Great Hall while the kids went in search of Hogwarts kitchen. As soon as they reached the kitchen, Harry called for the head elf, Lofty. Harry and his friends discussed the prank they wanted to pull off during the sorting feast. Lofty needed a little convincing but he readily agreed when the kids said that it would help the first-years be less nervous. The kids returned to the Great Hall and waited for Luna to return.

After what seemed like forever, Luna returned with a skip in her step. She said, "I am done for the day. Auntie Min gave me an O in Transfiguration and the dingy bat gave me an EE in Potions. Auntie Min said that he is infested with wrackspurts." The kids and Xeno congratulated Luna and left Hogwarts. Over the next three days, Luna passed all her tests with an O each in Charms, History of Magic, DADA and Astronomy, and an EE in Herbology.

With all of Luna's tests out of the way, the family decided to visit the established business offices and stores. On Thursday night, they had dinner at The Hungry Hippo in Diagon Alley. The owners were very pleased with the food the chefs had made and with the service they received from the waiters. The Hungry Hippo had been attracting customers ever since its opening. Andi, who had overseen the hiring process along with Sirius, Augusta and Elizabeth called for the manager of the restaurant. She congratulated her for her absolutely flawless management of the restaurant. The group also praised the chefs and the waiters. The restaurant employees looked very pleased with the compliments. With a promise to maintain the level of performance, the employees returned to their work.

On Friday morning, Harry received a letter from Ron. He read:

Hey mate,

My family and I are back in England. We will be going to Diagon Alley on August 23. I hope you will still be joining us. Mum finally agreed to buy me a broom. It won't be a Nimbus 2000 like yours, but it will be mine. Blimey, my own broom.

Mate, Egypt was brilliant. It was so different from here. We saw a lot of cool stuff. I will tell you all about it later. See you on August 23.

Ron.

Harry replied Ron that he would meet him on August 23 at Diagon Alley and sent it with Errol who had brought Ron's letter.

That night as everyone sat for dinner, the kids were unusually quiet. After a few bites, Sirius dropped his fork and said, "Alright, what is it? Why are you guys so quiet tonight?"

Richard looked at Sirius and broke into laughter. Sirius' hair had turned Slytherin green. Sirius looked at Richard and laughed, whose hair was the same shade of green. He looked around and saw that all the adults except Dora had green hair. The adults were now howling with laughter. Sirius said, "This is brilliant. The fact that you guys pulled it off with a straight face makes me proud. You're all worthy marauders."

Minerva replied, "Oh, please. These five may actually surpass the Marauders. Right when I was hoping for a peaceful and normal year, these kids start pranking. At least, they will keep the school lively."

Remus said, "As long as you guys don't do something which shows your clear involvement, I am not going to punish you."

Sirius added, "In fact, I challenge you to declare Prank Wars in Hogwarts. I will make sure the best prankster or group of pranksters will receive a handy reward from Marauders Inc."

Minerva finished, "As long as they don't bully someone."

The kids looked at each other and seemed to have a silent conversation. Harry replied with a mischievous smile, "You're on."

Minerva replied, "Dear Merlin, we have awakened Harry's inner James." Everyone had a good laugh as the kids explained how they had potioned the adults.

Over the weekend, the family spent time together either watching movies or playing games. Harry tried to get the other kids to fly on broomsticks. They were very hesitant at first, but finally agreed to try at the end of third year. Harry and Neville had picked up an interest in European football over the holidays. Sirius, Ted, Richard, Remus and Tonks, who had been into football for quite a while now, took the entire family for a Leeds United game against Norwich City on Saturday. They spent the Sunday camping in the woods surrounding the mansion.

It was Monday morning and there was a general excitement among the kids to go shopping for their new school year. Over the holidays, the magical part of the family, who had never seen mundane stationery before, were quite taken with it. In fact, they had started using mundane paper, pen and pencil whenever and wherever they could. However, the kids and the magical adults still had to buy parchments, ink and quills for official and school purposes. Besides the stationery, the kids also had to do normal shopping for books, robes and other necessary supplies. Sirius, Xeno and Augusta had agreed to take the kids shopping as the rest had to go to work. The three adults and the kids left for the Leaky Cauldron at 9.

No sooner had Harry picked himself up from the floor, he was being crushed in a hug by Mrs. Weasley. She kept smothering him and said, "Harry dear, how have you been? Have you been eating well? I hope Sirius didn't enforce you to – "

"Mrs. Weasley, I am fine", said Harry, trying to cut off Mrs. Weasley.

" – study the entire summer, did he? You can tell me if you're not fine. You could always come to the Burrow", continued Mrs. Weasley.

"Seriously, I am fine, Mrs. Weasley", reiterated Harry.

Mrs. Weasley broke the hug and held Harry by his shoulders. She continued, "Are you sure, Harry? I don't see Sirius here. Did you run away?"

Right at this moment, Sirius stepped out of the floo and said, "Mrs. Weasley, please unhand my son. He doesn't look comfortable."

Molly, who was now embarrassed, let go of Harry and said, "I am sure Harry was fine, Sirius. If he wasn't comfortable, he would have told me."

Ron, who had been behind his mother, came front and said, "Hey mate. Excited for third year? I can't wait. Mum is buying me a new broom."

"Hey Ron", was all Harry replied. The entire group and the Weasley family had now arrived.

Augusta, who had been the first to Leaky Cauldron, said, "Mrs. Weasley, just so you know, Heir Potter was not out here by himself. I arrived here first. Lord Black, Lord Lovegood and I are taking the kids shopping."

"I am sorry, Lady Dowager Longbottom", replied Molly, "I didn't see you." It was half-truth. Molly had seen the old witch, but she didn't know that she was with Harry. She continued, "Kids? You mean Harry, Neville and Luna?"

"Hermione and Susan too", replied Harry.

"Hello Hermione dear", said Molly. She greeted Neville, Luna and Susan as well. She asked Hermione, "Didn't your parents come with you?"

"My parents had to go their practice", replied Hermione. "They had already taken a long leave for our holiday trip. Besides, my parents are good friends with Lords Black and Lovegood, and Lady Dowager Longbottom. It didn't make sense for my parents to be here when their friends were here."

"I see", said Molly. "Well, let's go shopping then." The group left the Leaky Cauldron and headed to Diagon Alley. They went to Madam Malkin's first to place orders for their school robes, after which they went to The Mystic's Bow to get casual robes. Molly, who was visiting the store for the first time, said, "I didn't know there was a store that sold such good robes other than Madam Malkin's."

Augusta replied, "That's because this opened recently, Mrs. Weasley."

"Mum", said Ginny, "some of these robes are so pretty. Can I get one, please?" Molly agreed to her request and bought each of her kids one pair of formal robes and one pair of casual robes. The group left the clothing store and went to the apothecary to purchase the required potion ingredients for their upcoming year.

On the way to their apothecary, the group passed by Marauders Inc. The twins looked at the store and seemed excited. Fred said, "Bugger me sideways –"

George continued, "they replaced Zonko's with Marauders?"

"Zonko's was epic –", added Fred.

"But the Marauders", said George.

"were legendary", said both in unison.

Sirius' curiosity got better of him and he asked, "You guys have heard of the Marauders? How come?"

"Why, yes, Lord Black", replied Fred.

"It is the Marauders after all", added George.

"They are only the best", continued Fred.

"pranksters to have graced Hogwarts", said George.

"ever", finished both together.

"They are our idols", continued Fred.

"And about how we know of them? We found something of theirs", finished Geroge.

Sirius' and Harry's eyes widened in realization. Sirius grabbed hold of Harry and said, "Excuse me, Mrs. Weasley, but can I take the twins, Messrs. Weasley, with me for a second?" Molly nodded and Sirius, Harry and the twins left the group for a while. Sirius took them to Florean Fortescue's shop. They ordered ice creams and Sirius put up a privacy charm around them. He addressed the twins, "Am I right in assuming it is an old parchment with hidden secrets?"

"How did you know?", asked Fred and George.

"Why wouldn't he?", asked Harry. "After all, he was involved with my dad and a couple of his other friends in creating it." The twins looked gobsmacked at the revelation. Harry, who was enjoying the speechlessness of the twins, continued, "Let me introduce you to my father's best friend, my godfather and my blood-adopted father, Lord Sirius Orion Black, who also happens to be Padfoot of the Marauders."

"Harry here is the son of Prongs and an honorary nephew of Moony", continued Sirius as the twins still hadn't found a word to say. "We don't speak of Wormtail because he turned out to be a traitor. You may have heard of him as Peter Pettigrew."

Fred, who finally seemed to have found his voice again, said, "George, we are sitting among pranking royalty."

The twins said in unison, "We are not worthy, O ruler of land that is all mischief."

Sirius continued, "I hope you don't speak of this conversation to anyone. And about the map, I would be glad if it's returned to the rightful owner." The family didn't really need the map as they had made enough copies over the summer for each of the five kids, Minerva and Remus. They had extra copies handy as well. However, Sirius didn't want anyone else with the means to locate the kids, especially when the kids want to be hidden.

George produced an old parchment from his pocket and placed it on the table. He said, "We have already memorized all the secret passages by now. I hope you'd let us borrow it from time to time when we want to pull a prank."

Harry withdrew his wand and muttered, "I solemnly swear I am up to no good." Letters began to appear on the parchment. Having verified that it was the Marauder's Map, Harry deactivated it, folded it and put it in his pocket.

Sirius said, "Thank you for returning the map without too much fuss. If you kids ever want to work or apprentice at Marauders Inc., let me know."

"Thank you for the opportunity, Lord Black", replied Fred. Sirius, Harry and the twins left the ice-cream shop and joined the others at the apothecary. After having purchased the potion ingredients, the group moved to Quality Quidditch Supplies.

Ron was the first among the group to speak, "Look, Harry. They've got the Firebolt." He was pointing at presumably the most beautiful broom Harry had ever seen. Ron continued, "It's a shame we can't buy it."

"What do you mean we can't buy it?", asked a bemused Harry. Surely, he thought, if they display it, means you can buy it. Or at least place an order for one, which I know is one of the only few ways to own one.

"Blimey mate", said an exasperated Ron, "don't you know a thing about Firebolt brooms? First of all, they are used by professional players. The only way us common people can get is by placing an order with the company. They deliver it after a few months, at the minimum. Besides, it is bloody expensive. I doubt mum will let me have one." Ron paused for a moment, and asked, "Are you going to get one, mate? I mean you could. Your family is rich."

"No, Ron", replied Harry. "My broom works fine. I am happy with it. Besides, just because my family is rich, doesn't mean I should spend it unnecessarily."

"Just telling mate", said Ron. "That slimy Malfoy and the snakes have a better broom than you. It would be bloody amazing if you would show up with a Firebolt against them."

"No, Ron", replied Harry. "I don't want a Firebolt. I am happy with my Nimbus 2000. I can beat the Slytherins with my current broom."

Ron finally gave up trying to convince Harry and went along with his twin brothers to buy a broom for himself. Harry in the meanwhile looked for quidditch boots and goggles to wear during rain. After the Weasleys were done, the entire group decided to meet at Flourish and Blotts, and split into two. The Weasleys went to Ollivanders to get Ron a new wand. Harry and his party went to Magical Menagerie.

At the magical creatures' shop, Neville purchased food for Trevor while the other kids roamed around the store. Hermione came across an orange half-kneazle named Crookshanks, who had a slightly botched up face and ginger fur. Hermione looked at him and said, "It is as if he wants to go with me. He's so cute."

Harry, who had felt the same with Hedwig as soon as he had seen her with Hagrid, said, "He is trying to form a familiar bond with you, Hermione. I felt the same with Hedwig when I saw her for the first time." Without further hesitation, Hermione bought Crookshanks. She also bought treats and toys for him.

The group then left for the bookstore, where they were joined by the Weasleys after some time. They went back to Madam Malkin's and The Mystic's Bow after purchasing the books to pick up their robes. After they were done shopping, Mrs. Weasley said, "Harry dear, would you like to come to Burrow with us? I am sure Ron has a lot of things to share with you. You can also play quidditch with the boys."

"Thank you for the offer, Mrs. Weasley", replied Harry, "but I would like to go home with my family."

"You know you are always welcome to visit us, Harry dear", said Mrs. Weasley.

"Thank you for your kind offer, Mrs. Weasley", replied Sirius in Harry's stead. "We must get going now. We promised to take the kids to mundane London for shopping."

"That's mental, Harry. Why would you want to shop in muggle London?", asked a bemused Ron.

"It is a nice experience", replied Harry. "Besides, I like mundane wear."

"I see", said Molly. "Alright then, we will see you on September 1st." The Weasleys bade farewell and left. Harry's group did go to London later in the evening to buy some mundane clothes and stationery.